Defense played pivotal factor on road victory

Top-ranked Indiana ventured to No. 4 Michigan State on Tuesday and came away with its first win in East Lansing since 1991. Here are some keys to the Hoosiers' impressive victory:1. Limiting turnovers.

Indiana committed just 10 turnovers against a defense that thrives on forcing them. That boosted its offensive efficiency and prevented Michigan State from getting easy baskets and going on crowd-charging runs.

2. Transition defense.

The Hoosiers allowed just eight fast-break points while scoring 12 themselves. That was huge given how much Michigan State thrives on scoring in transition.

3. Containing point guard Keith Appling.

The junior is the Spartans' offensive and defensive catalyst, but he never got going. He was 1-for-8 from the field for six points. He had just two assists against four turnovers. IU's ability to control him was huge in the outcome.

4. Finishing the game.

IU once again showed how much it learned from the loss at Illinois. In the final minute the Hoosiers made play after play to pull out the victory despite facing one of college basketball's most intimidating crowds.

5.Three-point dominance.

Michigan State had excelled from beyond the arc, but Indiana limited the Spartans to just 4-for-15 long-range shooting. The Hoosiers, meanwhile, were 8-for-18 from three-point range. Jordan Hulls led the way by going 4-for-6.

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